Round trip: 7.8 miles

Hiking time: 4.5 hours

Elevation gain from trailhead: 1,736 (starts at 7,647, highest point is 9,383)

Difficulty: Moderate/difficult

Trailhead restrooms: Yes

Dogs and bikes: Yes

Fee: $2.25

Directions: From the entrance of Mill Creek Canyon in Salt Lake City, follow the road about 9 miles to the end and park in the upper parking lot.

Description: From the parking lot, head east on Little Water Trailhead. The well-defined, groomed trail travels through thick fir and aspen stands. At 0.3 miles, cross a bridge and follow the sign to the right where you will begin climbing. A second bridge and a stream is at 0.7 miles. Just before the one mile mark is the sign for the Great Western Trail. Go left toward Desolation Lake. The trail levels off and winds east and north again. Shade covers the trail in spots here before crossing several more bridges and wildflower meadows. At 2. 6 miles, you get your first glimpse of Murdock Peak. Continue up along the wide, curving switchbacks until you get to the ridgeline at 3.1 miles. Views of Park City and The Canyons Resort come into view on your right as you head toward a small saddle. At 3.4 miles you will see a double black diamond ski sign that reads Murdock Peak. Turn left and follow the thin trail through scrub oak north and then west around and the last tough push to the summit. The peak has great panoramic views.